When you're ready to buy or sell a property, the estate agent, a licensed professional who helps clients buy, sell, or rent property. Also known as a real estate agent, it's often the first person you’ll work with in the process. But too many people walk into their first meeting unprepared—asking vague questions, letting the agent lead every conversation, or worse, feeling too intimidated to push back. The truth? Estate agents work for you, not the other way around. You just need to know how to take control.
Knowing how to approach an estate agent isn’t about being pushy—it’s about being clear. Start by asking what properties they currently have listed that match your needs. Don’t just take their word for it; ask for recent sales data in the area. Did the last three homes in that street sell above or below asking price? What’s the average time on market? These aren’t fancy questions—they’re basic facts any good agent should have ready. And if they hesitate? That’s your signal to dig deeper or find someone else.
It’s not just buyers who need to be sharp. If you’re selling, your agent should be pushing you to price right, not just listing your home at the highest number you can imagine. A high listing price doesn’t mean a quick sale—it means more time, more showings, and fewer offers. Ask them: "What’s your strategy to get multiple offers?" and "How do you handle lowball offers?" If they say "We’ll just wait," that’s not a strategy—it’s a delay tactic.
First-time buyers often think estate agents are there to help them find the "best" home. But their main job is to close deals—sometimes for the seller, sometimes for themselves in commission. That’s why you need to treat them like a service provider, not a friend. Bring a checklist. Write down your must-haves. Ask about hidden costs like service charges, ground rent, or upcoming repairs. One buyer I spoke to didn’t know their dream home had a £2,500 annual service charge until after the offer was accepted. Don’t let that be you.
And don’t forget: your agent isn’t the only source of truth. Check Zillow estimates, local council records, and even drive by the neighborhood at different times of day. You’ll spot things no listing will mention—like noisy neighbors, poor street lighting, or a lack of parking. These aren’t "deal breakers"—they’re data points. And the more you collect, the less you’ll be swayed by polished photos and friendly small talk.
There’s no magic script for talking to an estate agent. But there is a pattern: be curious, be specific, and be ready to walk away. The best agents don’t mind being challenged—they respect clients who know what they want. The ones who get defensive? That’s your sign to look elsewhere. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling after years of living there, how you approach this relationship makes all the difference. Below, you’ll find real advice from people who’ve been there—tips on asking the right questions, negotiating without sounding aggressive, and spotting when an agent is more focused on their commission than your best interest.
